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Frequently Asked Questions about Huron Tour's Affordable Oktoberfest Package
Q: How much is the deposit?
A: $750 of which $300 is non-refundable (but insurance will cover this if you elect to purchase insurance.)
Q: When is the latest I can make my deposit?
A: We don't have a deadline. We sell out at different times every year, but usually around April we are getting very tight. We like people to reserve earlier because it makes the process work better for everyone (air arrangements, answering questions etc.)
Q: How do I make a deposit?
A: 1) Call us 800-734-192 or 2) online at our secure shopping cart or 3) request a brochure - we'll include a reservation form.
Q: I thought Oktoberfest was in October?
A: Nope! It begins in September, and extends into the first weekend of October. Read all about it on Wikipedia (opens in new window.)
Q: How big are your groups?
A: We max out at about 40 people.
Q: What if I don't have a group to travel with?
A: You don't have to be in a group - you can travel with a friend, by yourself, or with a group of friends.
Q: What's the single supplement?
A: Tour companies, ourselves included, price trips with the assumption that there are going to be two people sharing a room. If you are a single, the single supplement is the additional charge for not sharing a room.
Q: Can you find me a roommate?
A: Usually. The best thing is to make your deposit so we know you're serious...that helps us find you a roommate, or helps the other person looking for a roommate commit. Shoot us an email or give us a call to discuss further...
Q: Do I need to speak German / Dutch? I've never been to Europe before...
A: No! It might be fun for you if you do, but most people in both of these countries speak wonderful English. Restaurants offer menus in English etc. And, if you find yourself at a loss, there is always a friendly English speaking person to help translate.
Q: Why do you have air from the New York area? Why not [my city]?
A: We can book you air from anywhere. Munich doesn't have a ton of direct flights - it's really not that big of an airport. The New York area works well for our groups, but we always have people on alternate flights. Just get in touch with us and we'll explore the options with you.
Q: I want to do something before/after the Oktoberfest tour...
A: Great! We can sell the trip as "land only" (without air included), and can help you with plans for before/after if you want.
Q: I've never done a group tour before, what's it like?
A: We're a pretty laid back bunch. We use the economies of scale to save money for our tour participants, and we help you get the most from your trip. You are free to skip any portion of the trip you aren't interested in (after all, it is your vacation). The time we are together is for the planned events - so the Munich city tour (with a guide telling you about Munich), then our welcome dinner etc. We get you to and from the events and activities, and help make sure you have fun. You can make friends, or keep to yourself as much as you like. People on these trips are friendly, fun loving people and want everyone to have a good time.
Q: How old are the people on the tour? I don't want to be in a frat party/old person's tour.
A: We have all ages on the tour, and everyone has fun because of the mix of people we get. There is usually a nice spread from about 25 year old and up. Think of the mix you would get at a really fun wedding, but without any of your annoying relatives who knew you since you were "this tall." In the past couple of year we've had dentists, the owner of a fire engine sales company, recent university graduates, a Budweiser beer production facility repair manager, retirees, policemen, Cisco trainers, etc. all join us.
Q: How long is the walk from the Munich Hotel to Oktoberfest?
A: 1.8KM, or about 1/2 a mile, or 15 minutes slow walking. It's a safe, easy walk, that basically requires 1 right turn. See a map of the route HERE (opens in new window). You can also take the subway 1 stop (the entrance is right across the street from our hotel). Coming back, you can take a pedicab (bike cab).
Q: Do the Munich/Amsterdam hotels have a bathroom in the room?
A: Yes. Our hotels are first and foremost in excellent locations for proximity to Oktoberfest, easy of getting around Munich and the main tourist areas of Amsterdam and ease of getting around Amsterdam. These are not "luxury hotels", but they do have have quite large rooms for Europe, are very clean and tidy, and have wonderful friendly helpful staff. They are nice, but not as modern as what we have in America. And, they have bathrooms in the rooms, elevators, included breakfast, televisions, mini-bars, internet, etc.
Q: What Oktoberfest beer tent will I be in?
A: We don't know the tent, or the time, until much closer to our September departures. And by the time we know, we're sold out - you will have fun no matter what tent we are in!
Q: How much money do I need (for shopping / food / beer ?)
A: Of course this is very subjective. Breakfast is included every day at the hotel, dinner is included your first night in Munich, your last night in Amsterdam, and lunch/dinner is included one other time in Munich. You need money for your other meals, and whatever shopping you plan to do. The prices for things in Amsterdam and Munich are pretty much the same as in the US (with the exception of mixed drinks, soup and desserts - those cost more for whatever reason) - so you just have to figure out the exchange rate and your spending habits. You can find restaurants in all price ranges. Taxis are very expensive, but you shouldn't need a taxi for anything as the subway/tram/trains are really easy. And you can walk most places. Credit cards are accepted most places, and ATMs are available as well.
Q: How does the food/beer work at Oktoberfest
A: Generally, you will receive a voucher for two liters of beer, and a voucher for 1/2 a rotisserie chicken. You usually can use the value of the voucher on other items (if you don't like beer [what!] you can have Schnapps, if you don't like chicken you can have veal, or noodles or potato salad). You just have to pay the difference, if there is one. You do have to pay a tip, and a service charge (about 2 euros). Once you have consumed your two included liters of beer you have to pay for more. A liter of beer is usually about 8.5 euros. 1 liter of beer = 33.81 US fluid ounces = 2.8175 12 ounce beers = 3.6 euros per US sized beer = $5 per US beer. Approximately. So, more expensive than New Orleans where we live, but cheaper than New York or LA.
Q: What if I don't like beer and chicken?
A: The tents have full menus, and often full bars. They always have alternatives to beer and chicken.
Q: Why do I need your tour to go to Oktoberfest?
A: You don't, but we make it really easy, and don't charge that much. You can arrange flights on your own, find a hotel in Munich or a place to camp, and wait in line to get in to a beer tent. But, our company has been around for over 25 years, and we've been taking people to Oktoberfest for 10 years. We know what we're doing, and our experience and connections work in your favor for fun + quality.
Q: I heard it is possible/impossible to get into a beer tent
A: Both are true. It depends on how many people you are, and when you go. Weekends, the tents fill up early and stay full all day. The trick is, you must get a seat at a table to get service (you can't buy a beer if you aren't sitting at a table.) Getting in the tent is only part of the challenge - next you need to find a seat. You can do it, and it's fun trying. It's also fun going with us and knowing that you don't have to worry about it.
Q: I just want to buy beer tent reservations from you
A: Sorry, we agree to the terms of the Munich Breweries' and don't resell beer tent reservations.
Q: What is the deadline for booking the tour?
A: We don't really have a deadline. We book until we are sold out, and we do sell out.
Q: How can I get currency?
A: Luckily enough, Huron Tours can sell you currency. Our secure website offers competitive rates and fast delivery. Click here to check rates (no personal information, banking info required - opens in a new window). You can also use your credit card in Europe (though the credit card companies have started charging a conversion fee), ATM in Europe, or get currency from your own bank.
Q: What are your tour policies in general?
A: See here
A: $750 of which $300 is non-refundable (but insurance will cover this if you elect to purchase insurance.)
Q: When is the latest I can make my deposit?
A: We don't have a deadline. We sell out at different times every year, but usually around April we are getting very tight. We like people to reserve earlier because it makes the process work better for everyone (air arrangements, answering questions etc.)
Q: How do I make a deposit?
A: 1) Call us 800-734-192 or 2) online at our secure shopping cart or 3) request a brochure - we'll include a reservation form.
Q: I thought Oktoberfest was in October?
A: Nope! It begins in September, and extends into the first weekend of October. Read all about it on Wikipedia (opens in new window.)
Q: How big are your groups?
A: We max out at about 40 people.
Q: What if I don't have a group to travel with?
A: You don't have to be in a group - you can travel with a friend, by yourself, or with a group of friends.
Q: What's the single supplement?
A: Tour companies, ourselves included, price trips with the assumption that there are going to be two people sharing a room. If you are a single, the single supplement is the additional charge for not sharing a room.
Q: Can you find me a roommate?
A: Usually. The best thing is to make your deposit so we know you're serious...that helps us find you a roommate, or helps the other person looking for a roommate commit. Shoot us an email or give us a call to discuss further...
Q: Do I need to speak German / Dutch? I've never been to Europe before...
A: No! It might be fun for you if you do, but most people in both of these countries speak wonderful English. Restaurants offer menus in English etc. And, if you find yourself at a loss, there is always a friendly English speaking person to help translate.
Q: Why do you have air from the New York area? Why not [my city]?
A: We can book you air from anywhere. Munich doesn't have a ton of direct flights - it's really not that big of an airport. The New York area works well for our groups, but we always have people on alternate flights. Just get in touch with us and we'll explore the options with you.
Q: I want to do something before/after the Oktoberfest tour...
A: Great! We can sell the trip as "land only" (without air included), and can help you with plans for before/after if you want.
Q: I've never done a group tour before, what's it like?
A: We're a pretty laid back bunch. We use the economies of scale to save money for our tour participants, and we help you get the most from your trip. You are free to skip any portion of the trip you aren't interested in (after all, it is your vacation). The time we are together is for the planned events - so the Munich city tour (with a guide telling you about Munich), then our welcome dinner etc. We get you to and from the events and activities, and help make sure you have fun. You can make friends, or keep to yourself as much as you like. People on these trips are friendly, fun loving people and want everyone to have a good time.
Q: How old are the people on the tour? I don't want to be in a frat party/old person's tour.
A: We have all ages on the tour, and everyone has fun because of the mix of people we get. There is usually a nice spread from about 25 year old and up. Think of the mix you would get at a really fun wedding, but without any of your annoying relatives who knew you since you were "this tall." In the past couple of year we've had dentists, the owner of a fire engine sales company, recent university graduates, a Budweiser beer production facility repair manager, retirees, policemen, Cisco trainers, etc. all join us.
Q: How long is the walk from the Munich Hotel to Oktoberfest?
A: 1.8KM, or about 1/2 a mile, or 15 minutes slow walking. It's a safe, easy walk, that basically requires 1 right turn. See a map of the route HERE (opens in new window). You can also take the subway 1 stop (the entrance is right across the street from our hotel). Coming back, you can take a pedicab (bike cab).
Q: Do the Munich/Amsterdam hotels have a bathroom in the room?
A: Yes. Our hotels are first and foremost in excellent locations for proximity to Oktoberfest, easy of getting around Munich and the main tourist areas of Amsterdam and ease of getting around Amsterdam. These are not "luxury hotels", but they do have have quite large rooms for Europe, are very clean and tidy, and have wonderful friendly helpful staff. They are nice, but not as modern as what we have in America. And, they have bathrooms in the rooms, elevators, included breakfast, televisions, mini-bars, internet, etc.
Q: What Oktoberfest beer tent will I be in?
A: We don't know the tent, or the time, until much closer to our September departures. And by the time we know, we're sold out - you will have fun no matter what tent we are in!
Q: How much money do I need (for shopping / food / beer ?)
A: Of course this is very subjective. Breakfast is included every day at the hotel, dinner is included your first night in Munich, your last night in Amsterdam, and lunch/dinner is included one other time in Munich. You need money for your other meals, and whatever shopping you plan to do. The prices for things in Amsterdam and Munich are pretty much the same as in the US (with the exception of mixed drinks, soup and desserts - those cost more for whatever reason) - so you just have to figure out the exchange rate and your spending habits. You can find restaurants in all price ranges. Taxis are very expensive, but you shouldn't need a taxi for anything as the subway/tram/trains are really easy. And you can walk most places. Credit cards are accepted most places, and ATMs are available as well.
Q: How does the food/beer work at Oktoberfest
A: Generally, you will receive a voucher for two liters of beer, and a voucher for 1/2 a rotisserie chicken. You usually can use the value of the voucher on other items (if you don't like beer [what!] you can have Schnapps, if you don't like chicken you can have veal, or noodles or potato salad). You just have to pay the difference, if there is one. You do have to pay a tip, and a service charge (about 2 euros). Once you have consumed your two included liters of beer you have to pay for more. A liter of beer is usually about 8.5 euros. 1 liter of beer = 33.81 US fluid ounces = 2.8175 12 ounce beers = 3.6 euros per US sized beer = $5 per US beer. Approximately. So, more expensive than New Orleans where we live, but cheaper than New York or LA.
Q: What if I don't like beer and chicken?
A: The tents have full menus, and often full bars. They always have alternatives to beer and chicken.
Q: Why do I need your tour to go to Oktoberfest?
A: You don't, but we make it really easy, and don't charge that much. You can arrange flights on your own, find a hotel in Munich or a place to camp, and wait in line to get in to a beer tent. But, our company has been around for over 25 years, and we've been taking people to Oktoberfest for 10 years. We know what we're doing, and our experience and connections work in your favor for fun + quality.
Q: I heard it is possible/impossible to get into a beer tent
A: Both are true. It depends on how many people you are, and when you go. Weekends, the tents fill up early and stay full all day. The trick is, you must get a seat at a table to get service (you can't buy a beer if you aren't sitting at a table.) Getting in the tent is only part of the challenge - next you need to find a seat. You can do it, and it's fun trying. It's also fun going with us and knowing that you don't have to worry about it.
Q: I just want to buy beer tent reservations from you
A: Sorry, we agree to the terms of the Munich Breweries' and don't resell beer tent reservations.
Q: What is the deadline for booking the tour?
A: We don't really have a deadline. We book until we are sold out, and we do sell out.
Q: How can I get currency?
A: Luckily enough, Huron Tours can sell you currency. Our secure website offers competitive rates and fast delivery. Click here to check rates (no personal information, banking info required - opens in a new window). You can also use your credit card in Europe (though the credit card companies have started charging a conversion fee), ATM in Europe, or get currency from your own bank.
Q: What are your tour policies in general?
A: See here
Join Huron Tours and Travel in Munich for Oktoberfest in 2012
Huron Tours has been bringing groups to Munich for Oktoberfest for 11 years. Our travelers love being in Munich and attending Oktoberfest, as well as participating in the other Huron Tours exclusive events. If you request a brochure below, we will mail one out to you as soon as it is ready. We will send an email to those who have requested a brochure when pricing becomes available.
2012 Dates
Tour 1: 9/21 - 9/29
Tour 2: 9/29 - 10/7
2012 Affordable Oktoberfest + Amsterdam includes:
- Oktoberfest Tent Reservations with lunch/dinner and 2 liters of beer
- International Airfare from New York
- 4 nights centrally located hotel Munich, Germany (walk to Oktoberfest and tourist attractions)
- Private Munich City Tour
- Munich Welcome Dinner (with Beer)
- Airfare Munich to Amsterdam
- 3 nights centrally located Amsterdam Hotel
- Private Amsterdam canal cruise with cocktail party
- Farewell Dinner in Amsterdam
- On-site Huron Tours trip managers
- All Airport hotel transfers
- More!
Get a personalized Heineken Bottle at the Heineken brewery in Amsterdam
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Huron Tours & Travel, Inc.
| 8200 Hampson Street, Suite 311 | New Orleans, Louisiana 70118
Ph/Fax: 800.734.1192 | Email: email@hurontoursandtravel.com
Ph/Fax: 800.734.1192 | Email: email@hurontoursandtravel.com